If you selected a handful of professional hockey players in the NHL today, they would have many skills in common: dedication, stamina, strength, fortitude, etc. However, one of the most interesting things they would have in common is that, when they were playing hockey as kids, they always listened and focused during their hockey practices. Every NHL player had the proper sense to make the most out of their hockey practices, even when they were very young.
Hockey practice requires the right attitude and mindset. Here are 5 helpful tips on how to use these practices to your full advantage.
Listen to Your Coach
The most important thing that any hockey player can do during practice is listen attentively to their coach. They have the coaching position because they know the game of hockey inside and out, and can best instruct you on how to become a better player.
Whenever your coach goes to instruct you on something, whether they’re explaining a drill or giving a suggestion, make sure you’re quiet and attentive. Even when they’re talking to other players on your team, you should still be listening if you can! Often, the things they are saying to that other player can still apply to you in many ways. So, make sure you have your ears open, because you might catch something you can apply to your game to become better.
Ask Questions
Coaches know their stuff when it comes to hockey. If you want to quicken the development of your skills as a hockey player, you should ask as many questions as you can! Some examples of helpful questions are: What is this drill helping with? Is there anything I can be doing better? Also, always make sure to ask for help or clarification when you don’t understand something; that’s what your coach is there for!
Don’t Distract Others or Let Others Distract You
Even if you’ve made the decision to listen intently to your coach, your other teammates may still try to talk to you or distract you. Although keeping friendships is important, during practice, the most important thing is staying quiet and listening. Make sure to tell any teammate trying to distract you to stop, and remind them to pay attention. You’ll have plenty of time to talk and fool around off the ice.
By the same token, make sure you’re not distracting others. If others have made the decision to pay attention, try to respect that and develop the same attitude yourself. Your teammates will be grateful when everyone learns more as a result.
Come to Practice with the Right Attitude
Did you lose your last game and are still upset about it? That’s okay! Hockey players (or anybody, for that matter) can’t be happy all the time. But it’s important to try your best at leaving any issues you might be having off the ice and coming to practice with a clear head and a great attitude. This will really help with being able to focus on what your coach is saying and the drills you’re doing, so you can make the most out of practice.
Give Your Best Effort
Professional players see every practice as a fantastic opportunity to improve. The only way to ensure you’re making the most out of your practices is to put in your best effort. Give your all in every activity that you do, from start to finish. This means not only trying your hardest physically in the drills, but also trying your hardest mentally in terms of focusing on and internalizing what your coach is saying. This will put you well on your way to becoming the best hockey player you can be!
If you make it a habit to attend every practice applying these five things, you’ll have one more thing in common with every successful, professional hockey player out there. You know what they say, “A proper mindset is the first step toward success”, and making the most out of practices is one of the best things you can do to develop your skills as a hockey player!
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of hockey, I've not only followed the careers of numerous NHL players but have also been involved in coaching and player development for several years. I've witnessed firsthand the transformation of young, aspiring players into professional athletes. Understanding the nuances of effective practice and the mindset required for success has been a focal point of my expertise.
In the realm of professional hockey, success is often built upon a foundation laid in youth hockey leagues. The article touches on several crucial concepts integral to a player's development:
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Listening to the Coach: Attentiveness to the coach's guidance is paramount. NHL players often credit their early coaches for shaping their understanding of the game. Active listening and focused attention during practice sessions foster a deeper understanding of strategies and techniques.
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Asking Questions: Curiosity fuels progress. Players who seek clarification and actively engage with their coaches tend to accelerate their learning curve. Understanding the purpose behind drills and seeking improvement is a habit embraced by successful players.
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Minimizing Distractions: Concentration during practice is non-negotiable. It's not just about personal focus but also ensuring respect for teammates' concentration. The ability to maintain a disciplined, focused environment contributes significantly to skill absorption.
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Attitude: A positive mindset is a game-changer. Separating personal issues or setbacks from the practice environment is crucial. It allows players to engage fully, absorbing instructions and honing skills without unnecessary mental clutter.
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Giving Maximum Effort: Practice is where habits are formed. Professional players treat each session as an opportunity for improvement. It's not just about physical exertion but also mental engagement—immersing oneself completely in the learning process.
The mindset and habits cultivated during youth hockey, as outlined in these tips, lay the groundwork for success in higher-level play. The dedication to these principles isn’t just about becoming a better player; it’s about fostering a mindset that permeates success in various aspects of life.
As someone passionate about the sport and its development at all levels, these principles resonate deeply. They form the bedrock upon which exceptional players are molded, showcasing the critical role of practice not just in hockey but in the broader context of personal and professional growth.
